Heavy rains to batter state today; yellow alert in nine districts, fishermen advised not to venture into sea

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Central Meteorological Department informed that there is a possibility of heavy rains in the state today. Yellow alert has been issued in Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad and Kannur.

The reason for the rains is the low pressure over the Andaman Sea. It will become a severe low pressure during the next few hours. The India Meteorological Department has warned that it will intensify into Cyclone Sitrang over the central-west Bay of Bengal by Monday. The Meteorological Department has also warned that there may be rain in isolated places till the next day.

Strong winds are likely to blow at a speed of 45 to 55 kmph and occasional winds of up to 65 kmph are likely along the coast of Maldives till tomorrow, along with bad weather conditions. The Meteorological Department has advised fishermen not to venture into the sea on the coast of Lakshadweep till October 23. Meantime, there is no restriction on fishing off the coast of Karnataka.